St. Brendan's Boys Primary School

We have been very fortunate to have had 6 weeks of excellent chess tuition for our

boys in 4th , 5th and 6th classes.

Donner and Blitzen both ate 3 Reindeer biscuits each.

The boys really enjoyed the games and learnt

new skills. Studies have shown the benefits that playing chess can have on areas such as

problem solving and concentration on tasks. Big thanks to all the boys for their

excellent bahaviour, the PA and all parents who fundraised to part support the costs

and to the lovely Mr.Alfred who we hope to see back again next year!!

The school held an attendance week to encourage school attendance and reinforce the importance of education.

Classes started programmes of Pottery, gymnastics, chess, music and computer programming.

We also had a whole school talk with Education Welfare Officer Sandra Greville and the launch of attendance teams within the school.

The highlight of the week was our Guest Speaker to our 6^th class boys. We were delighted to welcome Mr. Willie Loughnane of the County Arms Hotel and who was also a past pupil of the school. The boys in 6^th were regaled with stories from the past and the values of school, friendship, adventure, dedication and pride in St. Brendans Boys Primary School were passed on to the next generation.

Dasher ate 4 Reindeer biscuits.

Pictured are some of the 6^th Class boys and Mr.Willie Loughnane

Once again we remind boys and families of the importance of coming to school. A

leaflet by the NEWB (National Education Welfare Board) was sent with each pupil in

September outlining the legal responsibilities involved. At the start of a new school

year its a great time to say well done to all the boys who made an effort to attend last

year and to the boys who received certificates from Sandra Greville (EWO) last June

for 100% attendance or improved attendance.

We were delighted to welcome one of our parents, Mr.Cahal Rock to come into

the school to talk to some of the classes about his interesting profession. Cahal works

for the Irish Navy and gave a fascinating talk to 3rd class on life at sea and the thrills

and dangers involved with his job. He gave a chat to the boys of 6th class and told them

of the value of Education to follow the career path to the Navy or elsewhere and the

importance of attending school. He was very patient with his time and answered questions ranging from sea-sickness to the

battles against drug smugglers !! Thanks to Cahal for coming in to visit us and no

doubt the boys all learned a lot.

Well done to our new Junior Infant boys who have just completed their first

week at St. Brendans PS. A great start by all !